Koteshwar Mahadev Temple, Rann Of Kutch - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Koteshwar Mahadev Temple

At a distance of 2 Km from Narayan Sarovar, 15 Km from Lakhpat, and 119 Km from Great Rann of Kutch, Koteshwar Mahadev Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located at the small village of Koteshwar in the Kutch district of Gujarat. Also known as Kotilingeshwar Temple, Koteshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Situated near Narayan Sarovar, it is one of the sacred pilgrimage sites in Gujarat, and among the top places to visit in Rann of Kutch. It is located on the westernmost inhabited outpost of the Indian subcontinent and is the only point of construction between the two sceneries, the calm sea and the deserted terrain.

History of Koteshwar Mahadev Temple

The Koteshwar Temple was built in 1820 by Jetha Shivji Brahmashaktirya and Seth Sundarji, as indicated by the inscriptions located on the left side of the main entrance. The first references to Koteshwar appear in the accounts of the 7th-century Chinese traveler Hieun-Tsiang, who describes the area as a significant harbor, featuring approximately 80 monasteries and situated about 5 miles from the mouth of the Indus River.

Mythology of Koteshwar Mahadev Temple

Koteshwar literally means 'ten million gods'. As per the legend, Lord Shiva had granted a linga full of religious power to Ravana in appreciation of his devotion. Ravana accidentally dropped it here. To punish Ravana for his carelessness, the linga turned into a millions of identical copies. Unable to distinguish the original, Ravana grabbed one and departed, leaving the original one here, around which Koteshwar Temple was built.

Architecture of Koteshwar Mahadev Temple

Constructed from stone, the Koteshwar Mahadev Temple is situated on an elevated platform and is protected from the sea by a wall. Historically, the temple was nearly isolated from the mainland due to tidal creeks, but it is now accessible via a single road. The temple features three domes, with the central dome being particularly well-crafted. The sanctum contains the main deity represented as a linga, along with images of Lord Ganapati, Hanuman, and Parvati. Additionally, a brass idol of Nandi, gifted by Rao Deshalji I of Kutch State, can be found directly opposite the main Shiva Linga.

Positioned overlooking the expansive Arabian Sea and Kori Creek, Koteshwar Temple serves as the final human construction at the westernmost edge of India. The contrasting landscapes of the sparsely populated Rann of Kutch on one side and the serene sea on the other create a remarkable harmony, making it an ideal spot for watching sunsets. On clear nights, the lights of Karachi, Pakistan are visible from this location.

Festivals of Koteshwar Mahadev Temple

The Koteshwar Mahadev Temple in Kutch hosts a variety of Hindu festivals, with Maha Shivratri being the most notable. Other important celebrations at the temple include Shravan Somvar, which occurs during the sacred month of Shravan in honor of Lord Shiva, and Navratri. During these occasions, a large number of devotees assemble to offer prayers and engage in religious ceremonies. Additionally, an annual fair takes place from the 11th to the 15th of Karthika Month, which typically falls in November according to the Hindu calendar.

Dress Code & Other Restrictions of Koteshwar Mahadev Temple

Koteshwar Mahadev Temple in Kutch does not enforce a strict dress code; however, it is advisable to wear modest attire that covers the upper arms and legs as a mark of respect. Men are encouraged to don a dhoti or pajama along with an appropriate upper garment, or to wear formal trousers and shirts. Women may choose to wear a saree, half saree, or chudidhars. It is recommended to avoid modern clothing such as mini-skirts, shorts, and sleeveless tops while visiting the temple.

Non-Hindus are generally allowed to walk around the temple grounds and observe the rituals from a respectful distance. However, there may be some restrictions on entering the inner sanctum, where the deity is enshrined.

Koteshwar Mahadev Temple Timings

Monday: 6 AM - 1 PM & 4 PM - 8:30 PM
Tuesday: 6 AM - 1 PM & 4 PM - 8:30 PM
Wednesday: 6 AM - 1 PM & 4 PM - 8:30 PM
Thursday: 6 AM - 1 PM & 4 PM - 8:30 PM
Friday: 6 AM - 1 PM & 4 PM - 8:30 PM
Saturday: 6 AM - 1 PM & 4 PM - 8:30 PM
Sunday: 6 AM - 1 PM & 4 PM - 8:30 PM

Koteshwar Mahadev Temple Entry Fee

Entry is Free

Best Time to Visit Koteshwar Mahadev Temple

The ideal period to visit Koteshwar Mahadev Temple is from October to February, when the weather is mild, and suitable for exploring the temple. For those wishing to partake in the celebrations, planning a visit during Maha Shivratri is highly recommended. This festival is marked by vibrant celebrations, attracting a large number of devotees. However, visitors should be aware that this is also the peak season, resulting in larger crowds. Alternatively, for a more peaceful experience, the months of September and October, following the monsoon, offer a beautiful, verdant landscape. It is best to avoid visiting during the summer months due to the extreme heat.

How to Reach Koteshwar Mahadev Temple

About 165 Km from Koteshwar, Rudramata Airport in Bhuj is the nearest airport and is well connected by flights with Mumbai while Ahmedabad Airport is the nearest international airport which is about 497 Km from Koteshwar. Bhuj Railway station is the nearest major railhead and is well connected by trains with Palanpur, Pune, Dadar, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Shalimar, and Mumbai. Bhuj is well connected with buses from Mumbai, Dwarka, Ahmedabad, Mount Abu, Surat, Rajkot, Bhavnagar, Jamnagar, Junagadh, Porbandar, Amreli, and Mandvi. One can take a bus, or hire a cab from Bhuj to reach Koteshwar Mahadev Temple.